Ms Kate Duggan:

As for the response, we very much welcome the fact that this year, through European accounts funding, 17 family support workers will be allocated, or one to each of the Tusla areas, to support directly parents and families within direct provision. Through the Children and Young People's Services Committee, CYPSC, which is about the health service, Tusla, county councils and the community and voluntary sector, a total of €1.3 million has been allocated. We are hopeful that in 2023, more supports will be given, as they have been, to support and show families in direct provision that support is out there and how to access services within the community. More is needed, but they are two good initiatives we have received from the Department that will benefit children and families in direct provision.